Dear SDMS Members,

Whenever I read a JDMS article, take a CME post-test for SDMS CME credit, or participate in an SDMS in-person or virtual event, I always think about the volunteer subject matter experts who were instrumental in ensuring that I had the content I need to do my job as a sonographer.

Through my time working with the SDMS as a volunteer, I have seen firsthand how our volunteers fulfill a variety of vital roles in the SDMS. Volunteers drive the direction of the SDMS, mentor sonography students for future leadership development, judge SDMS awards and competitions, work on proposed legislation, oversee the SDMS budget and financial reports, identify future leaders and slate candidates for the election, and ensure the continuous creation of content to meet the needs of sonographers. The SDMS is very fortunate to have a talented staff working on our behalf, but we depend on the contributions of our dedicated volunteers. I can say with complete sincerity that the SDMS exists because of our volunteers.

While the SDMS is thankful every day for our volunteers, as we celebrate National Volunteer month throughout April, it gives us the opportunity to publicly acknowledge the work of our volunteers. It is also an opportunity for you to consider how you can use your time and talents to support the sonography community. Volunteer opportunities with the SDMS range from long-term commitments, such as the Board of Directors, committees, and task forces, to micro-volunteer projects that are shorter in nature, such as speaking opportunities or utilizing your expertise to create content for learning activities. There are opportunities for all specialties and all levels of experience.

Thank you again to all our volunteers. We couldn’t do it without them and I look forward to what we will create together in 2022.

Sincerely, 

Catherine E. Rienzo, EdD, RT(R)(ARRT), RDMS, FSDMS

SDMS and SDMS Foundation President